The first time I saw the Velowave Prado S, a smallish electric cargo bike, it reminded me of a cross between the much pricier Benno RemiDemi and the ever-popular RadRunner from Rad Power Bikes. The Prado S also has a little bit of racing flare, like a Juiced Scrambler with its number plate. I could get creative with that! Somehow it all works, and it’s a sweet looking bike with some good utility and specs, considering the price.
Quick Specs of the Velowave Prado S
- 750 Watt Geared Hub Motor, 1275 Watt Peak
- 48 Volt 15 Ah Battery, LG Cells
- 55 Nm Torque
- TFT Color Display
- Range 25-40+ Miles
- Class 3, 28 Max Speed Using Pedal Assist
- Throttle Max Speed 20 MPH
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes
- Hydraulic Front Suspension Fork
- 20″ x 4″ Fat Tires
- Shimano 7-Speed Twist Shift
- Integrated Front Light; Reflector on Back
- 6061 Aluminum Frame
- Bike Weight 77.2 lbs
- Payload Capacity 330 lbs
- Min Seat Height 845 mm or 33.27 in
- Max Seat Height 1040 mm or 40.94 in
- For Riders 5’4″ – 6′ 2″
- Available Accessories are Front/Rear Basket(s)
- Three color options (Red, Black, Silver)
- Price $1699 (At Times Discounted for Less)
- Free Shipping in the United States
- Buy Online at Velowave or on Amazon
Looking over the specs, it’s priced well considering battery capacity, motor wattage, and that it has hydraulic brakes and a hydraulic front fork. You usually pay much closer to $2k or above for a bike equipped with such components.
It is a heavy bike at 77.2 lbs but on par with similar bikes, such as the RadRunner or the KBO Ranger, which are in the same category. Cargo bikes need to be built tough to be able to carry heavy loads, so they typically won’t be featherweights.
The battery and controller are easily accessible, and look good on the frame. Removing the battery or replacing the controller, should it ever need replaced, will be easier than if the controller was integrated into the bike frame.
There are several mounting points along the frame for accessories, very reminiscent of the RadRunner, but Velowave doesn’t offer that cool storage box for the frame – at least not yet.
The mag wheels are a good choice for a cargo bike, since you won’t have to worry about broken spokes, or wheels needing constant adjustments from carrying heavy loads.
Parts and Accessories
I do appreciate that Velowave sells many parts for their bikes on their website. Most ebike companies only sell accessories, replacement batteries, and maybe tires, but Velowave sells motors for some of their models, wiring, controllers, spokes, shifters, and more.
At the time of writing this, I don’t see as many parts for the Prado as I did for their other models, but it looks like you’ll be able to order replacement parts to keep your bike going for years into the future. That is reassuring.
About the Company
Velowave is a company based out of Hong Kong, so expect some delay in customer service emails being answered due to time differences. As far as customer service goes, I have read through reviews on their website and on Amazon, and they don’t delete the negative ones. That’s a good sign! Overwhelmingly, the reviews are good.
Bike Size
While the Prado S is a more compact electric cargo bike, it likely isn’t suitable for riders under 5’3″ or so. I had the same issue with the RadRunner. It was comfortable to pedal, but not being able to touch my feet to the ground, as well as I would have liked, sometimes made getting on and off the bike a little treacherous. Btw, I’m 5’1″. If you are looking for a cargo bike that is better for shorter riders, check out the KBO Ranger. It fits me well.
With a wheelbase of about 46 inches and a total length of about 70.5″, it’s close in size to a standard bicycle. If you plan to haul it, it will fit in most bike racks, though you’ll want one rated for the bike’s weight, and probably a ramp, or a second person to lift it onto a rack.
Utlity
Obviously, the purpose of a cargo bike is utility, such as being able to haul a passenger, and carry groceries or other cargo safely and easily. Velowave doesn’t advertise the Prado S as a passenger bike. Unlike, the RadRunner and KBO Ranger, there aren’t any passenger accessories. Also, the rear rack is shorter than both the RadRunner and Ranger, so you’ll want to keep that in mind, if you’re wanting to carry a lot of cargo.
But, as a grocery getter, commuter, college campus mode of transport, or as a bike to carry gear on those long trails, it will perform great at such tasks. It also has a payload capacity of 330 lbs, which is quite good.
Concluding Thoughts
Overall, I like what I’m seeing from the Prado S. It has a good look, a fair price, and decent utility. It should be zippy and provide good range for the average rider. I can’t give a recommendation just yet, since the company is new to the United States, but I am liking what I see in their bikes, especially the Prado S.
Check out the current price and availability of the Prado S at Velowave or on Amazon.
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